Cornelius Airds Blanc De Blanc
⏳ Drinking Window
Typically best enjoyed 3–10 years from the vintage release to appreciate both its fresh maritime vibrancy and developing autolytic complexity.
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Fresh oysters, seared scallops, creamy mushroom risotto
✨ Technical Specifications
The Cornelius range represents the pinnacle of Scotchmans Hill's winemaking, sourcing fruit from low-yielding, select vineyard sites on the cool-climate Bellarine Peninsula. The Airds Blanc de Blancs is a sophisticated expression of single-vineyard Chardonnay, grown on the region's unique black volcanic soils. Benefiting from the moderating maritime breezes of Port Phillip Bay, the grapes retain a piercing natural acidity and intense mineral drive. Crafted using the traditional method, this sparkling wine undergoes extended aging on its lees, marrying the bright, citrus-driven fruit of the peninsula with complex autolytic notes of toasted brioche, hazelnut, and creamy lemon curd. It stands as a testament to the region's capacity for producing world-class, elegant sparkling wines.
🍾 About the Producer
Established in 1982 by David and Catherine Browne, Scotchmans Hill is a pioneering producer on the maritime Bellarine Peninsula within Victoria's acclaimed Geelong wine region. Planted on rich, volcanic basalt soils and moderated by maritime breezes from Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait, the estate benefits from a dry, cool maritime microclimate. Guided by long-tenured chief winemaker Robin Brockett, the winery focuses on minimal intervention and precision viticulture to reflect authentic regional terroir. Scotchmans Hill is renowned for its estate-grown, elegant Pinot Noir, complex Chardonnay, cool-climate Shiraz, and its prestige Cornelius single-vineyard collection.
🍇 Grape Varieties
Chardonnay